May 6, 2009 - Tea Shop Under the Bridge
The sun was bright and the skies were clear when we set out on our last river exploration. So after some wading, we stopped under the bridge at a makeshift tea house to have a drink. This is the view from where I sat at my table, looking toward the riverbank. You can see the shopkeeper walking toward her little hut where she stores the hot water, tea, and glasses.
This is what we ordered -- flower tea. Isn't it pretty? The white "rocks" are sugar. There's not much flavor, just hot water with a bit of a sweet taste. But it's refreshing when you're thirsty.
Yes, drinks in China are traditionally served hot. The main reason is simply because tap water must be boiled before it's safe to drink. And there is also a fear in Chinese medicine that iced beverages are bad for your body.
We buy 5 gallon drums of drinking water at home, but many people still boil their water rather than pay a higher price for water delivery. (A five gallon drum is about $1.50.) For anything that will be boiled such as cooking pasta, soups, gravies, I always use tap water.
Comments
May 6, 2009 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Penny
Your photos are awesome. It's always a joy to see them.
Thanks for sharing your life
May 7, 2009 - Untitled Comment
Posted by drewsfamilytx
I am always impressed by the industry of some people. In the land of Wal-mart and Superstores, you just don't see the little guy or mom and pop business owners anymore. Kinda makes me sad.
As to the 5 gal drum for $1.50, I'd be all over that!
May 7, 2009 - Untitled Comment
Posted by BeeBuddy
Hmmm. Refreshing is not the word I'd use for a glass of hot water and weeds, but if you say so. ;)
What a strong businessperson to have a business there. I like independent spirits like that, so I might have bought the tea just for that reason alone!
Emily
thelearningneverstops.blogspot.com
May 7, 2009 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Anonymous
That's my daughers' ID....whoops!
Emily
thelearningneverstops.blogspot.com
May 7, 2009 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Molytail
I'm not fan of tea, but the flowers in it are cute! :-)
http://tailsgonewest.blogspot.com/
May 13, 2009 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Della
I always love your peeks into life in China. So many things different. I am certainly more thankful this morning for the fact that I can turn on my tap and get safe drinking water from it. Yeah, the potato chips on a stick, they had me until the fruit jel stuff...strange. Have a great day Jimmie!!!
